In this contemporary yet timeless collection, acclaimed anthologist Lee Bennett Hopkins brings together sixteen selections that reveal through poetic word imagery the common universal emotions and feelings we all have, whether they be happy, excited, wishful, proud, sad, or lonely. The poems taken as a whole reflect the great variety of people in our society, bringing children of today into focus as they meet with childhood experiences and also interact with adults in their world. The moving and insightful verses more than half of which were commissioned specifically for this collection were created by many well-known writers, including Joseph Bruchac, Rebecca Kai Dotlich, Nikki Grimes, Lee Bennett Hopkins, Carole Boston Weatherford, Jane Yolen, Pat Mora, and Janet S. Wong. Glowing illustrations by Chris Soentpiet infuse the poems with life, exquisite settings, and atmosphere. Readers of all ages will want to feast their eyes on these captivating poems and images again and again.

About the Author

Noted poet Lee Bennett Hopkins has edited or authored numerous books for children, including the I Can Read Books Hamsters, Shells, and Spelling Bees; A Pet for Me: Poems; and the ALA Notable Children's Book Surprises. The recipient of a Christopher Award and the University of Southern Mississippi's Medallion for "lasting contributions to children's literature," Mr. Hopkins lives in Florida.

CHRIS SOENTPIET is the illustrator of several highly-praised picture books. He has won many awards for his work, including the NAACP Image Award, Society of Illustrators Original Art Show Gold Medal, ALA Notable Books, IRA Children's Book of the Year, Jane Addams Children s Book Award, Parents Choice Award, and Notable Books for a Global Society. Soentpiet has also received a Gold Medal from the Society of Illustrators, an honor bestowed onan artist by fellow illustrators. He lives in Flushing, New York, with his wife and their children.